I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My first book by this author. I loved it. The characters were so relatable. I felt a connection to this book. A quick and entertaining read. The author definitely makes you want more with each page turn.
Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another explosive story from this author! I loved the story and the characters! This flows along at a great pace and I quickly read it in two sittings! The characters are resilient and not what I expected.
At first I was hesitant because Adrick is only a bodyguard and I wasn’t too interested in him. Boy was I wrong! His back/story is fascinating! The growth he had over his life is remarkable as he has faced many struggles and horrendous things. It is amazing he turned out like he has. I love that he had the secret crush! I still remember when I read the line anout how he had touched her for the first time…he was sooo excited or giddy. So refreshing! I could hear his thoughts in my head.
While I enjoyed Annika, her plight and her strength I was more empathetic to the beast and how everything would play out for him. I did like all of the family involvement into the storyline.
Overall this is an outstanding addition to the series. This is the fifth book in the series but can easily be read as a standalone. The author does a good quick job of artfully filling pasts where they need to be. I look forward to more!
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Having to quarantine for two weeks is a lonely ordeal so one colleague tells another that he is staying with her and her kids. A shocking story being revealed is a good therapeutic distraction for Debbie while her mother struggles with Covid while it stirs up distant suppressed memories for Gary. The stories he reveals gives her greater insight into his past actions when times got tough. This book is well written and keeps you engaged with the stories Gary reveals during younger years in his life. This book is number three of the series but is a good read standalone.
In times of crisis, our true nature is revealed.
Following the attempted murders of the Elders in The Conductor, Soraya is forced to lead The Circle into a new era of taking the offensive. As she awakens new powers and works to bring together The Circle under her leadership, she takes the opportunity to build a stronger, united front that can attack if necessary.
But she’s not the only one discovering new abilities. Shawn Kites, Owner and CEO of DNAgen Biolabs, is determined to release Melacrit into the world, eliminating races of color with one simple pill. He’s already proven he’s willing to get his hands bloody, but with High Priestess Madeline pregnant with his son and heir, the clock is ticking. If his plan is to succeed, he’ll need to destroy The Circle before his son is born – and now that he has the power to walk the Dream Plain, he has everything he needs to achieve his ambition.
Can Soraya and The Circle finally defeat Shawn or has all their sacrifice been in vain?
Secrets are revealed, friendships are betrayed, and lives are lost in Freedom Rings, the explosive finale of The Circle’s first trilogy.
CIPA EVVY Award-winning author, Brenda M Hardwick, released The Conductor: Book Two of The Circle, the anticipated sequel to Harlem Angel during the pandemic lockdown.
Brenda’s latest release, Freedom Rings, Book 3 of The Circle was released on October 11th, 2022.
Brenda lives in Colorado with her dog Lelu and two noisy parakeets. She has two sons, six grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Brenda spends her days writing, helping with her twin granddaughters, and serving people through Angel Communication and Energy Healing.
Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great continuation of the series. I am so glad I got the chance to read both. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had a hard time putting it down and doing other things, I was so invested in what would happen next. My favorite is the vivid descriptions, I hope I get a chance to see Venice one day.
Gunner is the third book in the Hollins & Haring Series by T.J. Beach. The book takes place during the COVID outbreak which forces Gary and Debbie to quarantine together. During this time, Gary takes Debbie on an adventure into his past. His past is not pretty, but it is filled with action that helps Debbie take her mind off of her mother who is struggling with her COVID battle. Beach does a great job of weaving the action into the story and gives breaks to the action in a manner that builds suspense and intrigue about Gary’s past. This series reminds me of old spy movies, and in my opinion, makes a great action-packed movie. Gunner is the perfect book for anyone wanting an action-packed read!
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Gunner (A Hollins & Haring #3) by T.J. Beach
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. Gunner is the third book in A Hollins & Haring Series. Gunner is the first book I’ve read from the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Simon Whittaker, Gary Hollins, is telling his story. His friend Debbie wants to know and he’s finally spilling the beans. He makes sure that she won’t say anything to anyone. He’s got his past, but then he sees that Deb’s world is falling apart. The quote I chose for Gary is: “I’m serious, Deb. Really serious. Not even Matt. I know you don’t blab, and Matt’s even more discreet than you are, but no one in Australia can hear that name. Understand?”
Highly recommended for Crime Thriller lovers.
Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
So this is the first book I have read in this series. I don’t feel like I was missing anything. I do believe I will need to go read the first 4 books though! Adrik and Annika’s story is wonderful. It has everything you could want; suspense, twists and turns, love that sees past what is on the outside. Is their love enough though to see them through the traumas they have both endured in their lives?
Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
17 chapters of a whirlwind romance with an edge of mystery, Degrees Of Innocence won’t lack in capturing the reader’s attention. Katarina narrates her time in Aruba working on a project to make healthcare more accessible. When a man collapses in the dining room of the resort, Katarina begins CPR when another man assists her. After the man is taken to an ambulance, Chase buys her dinner and escorts her to her room where they exchange phone numbers. Chase promises to give her a tour of the island. Katarina finds she can’t stop thinking about Chase. Meanwhile, she continues to work on setting up for the conference. Much to her dismay, the owner of Prestian Corporation keeps emailing her to stop working so she can enjoy the resort.
Sunday, Katarina and Chase go on a tour of the island. Both of them admit to their attraction and while Katarina would willingly allow Chase in her room that evening, Chase promises they can spend their time on Monday evening where he intends to spend his time focused completely on her. When Monday morning arrives, Katarina is shocked to see Chase in a business suit. Chase is the owner of Prestian Corporation! The story progresses delving into the dynamic of Katarina and Chase’s relationship. Rumors turn into dangerous threats and Katarina is faced with her mother’s past which is a serious threat to her life and Chase’s company. This is a promising series and I eagerly look forward to reading this romance series.
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book brings a little bit of everything. Action, romance, hope, and more. This is the third installment in the series and although I didn’t read the first two, the was a great tale into Gary Hollins previous life and what brought him to Australia. The descriptions in this made me feel like I was in each scene. I had no confusion going back and forth between current times and the past and I felt like inwas Debbie, sitting on the back deck, listening to Gary’s stories. I plan on reading the first two and hope there is a book four in the works.
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Gunner is book number three in the Hollins and Haring series about two private detectives, Debbie, and Gary, although we find out pretty quickly that Gary is not his actual name, and he has a dark, shocking past that he hasn’t ever shared with anyone. When Covid begins to rear it’s ugly head in Australia and Debbie’s mom becomes incredibly I’ll and the family’s ends up having to quarantine. Over the next two weeks Gary begins to share his story with Debbie as a way to distract her and keep her from spiraling into despair and depression. Once I started I was drawn into the modern day story as much as I was the story of Gary’s past. The tone, descriptive language, and the anecdotes used throughout the book, such as “taking the piss” I thought were cool as I had never heard phrases like that and it held my interest throughout. I didn’t really know what to expect, other than some form of military story and I was pleasantly surprised with the book. I didn’t think I would become as invested as I did but I started to find myself wanting to know what happened next along with Debbie. I did find myself wondering why everyone was so hard on Gary/Simon, both sets of parents, I understood Trish’s fear, stress, and curiosity when she thought Gary was lying but as a military wife with a military family they had unrealistic expectations. One cannot simply drop everything and ‘be’ there, or come home immediately, unless their is dire circumstances no matter how much they might want to. Granted I do understand he was ‘supposed’ to be on leave or sorts at some points even if he was sometimes lying. E14 really took advantage of him and I was kind of outraged for him then too. Overall, I did really enjoy this book/series and would be interested in reading more by this author.
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gunner is the third book in the Hollins & Haring series, but I read it as a standalone. I don’t think you’ll get lost in it without the others, but after reading this one I’m definitely picking up the rest of the series.
Gary and Debbie work together and seem to get along well enough. She has a feeling that Gary has a lot that he isn’t facing in his life, but he is a master at avoidance. But all is not well when the inevitable happens. Debbie’s mother is the first person in their town to test positive for COVID, and now Gary is there with her family in quarantine. Debbie is anxious and isn’t sure what to do since her husband, who is her strength, is far away working. Gary decides he’s going to distract her with what she wants to know…his sad story. Speaking this out loud may help Debbie, but it’s making Gary face his demons that he’d rather run from.
This was an incredibly emotional read, and I couldn’t put it down once I started. I highly recommend picking this up, and I’m headed to pick up the rest of the series now because this author has a way of grabbing your attention and keeping it!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A real page turner of a novel, which kept me gripped throughout the story. Gary Hollins only works when Debbie Haring nags him, and he remains a mystery to her. Having had private detective assignments turn bad before, Debbie knows that there is no one better than Gary to have by your side. However, Gary never talks about where he learnt his deadly skills, and he’s happy to waste his days in a West Australian beachside caravan park, with a cheap beer, far away from his past in England. When Debbie’s world collapses, Gary reluctantly distracts t her by telling her his story. Debbie’s Mum is the first local of Bell’s Landing to test positive for the COVID virus, which is sweeping the globe. To make matters worse Debbie is stuck in quarantine alongside Gary, with her kids, whilst her husband Matt is away on a mine site.
As Gary’s story unfolds, Debbie learns that he was cut from SAS recruitment just short of graduation, and then a fringe-government organisation made him an offer, if he could infiltrate a neo-Nazi hate group, they would give him a second chance at special forces wings. Gary was ordered to take part in increasingly violent attacks, whilst being plagued with doubts about his less than above board handlers. Meanwhile he was having to tell his pregnant girlfriend lies. As Debbie’s Mum deteriorates, Gary is forced to face his demons which drove him away from his own family. This crime, mystery thriller was at times heartbreaking to read, and it took me on an emotional rollercoaster. The Covid storyline made it feel very real and relatable. The characters are great and I felt engaged with both Debbie and Gary, whilst the settings in both Australia and London were brought to life by the descriptive narrative. Although part of a series, I happily read it as a standalone story.
Murder on oak street by I. M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. This is a new to me author and I really liked her writing style, I found it to be really engaging and my interest was definitely kept from beginning to end. I love historical reads and a do love a good murder mystery so thought I would give this book a go and I’m so glad I did. Daniel was a great character to read about – I really liked him. The time period and setting for the story was really great, I’ve not read many historical novels set in New York.
Overall this was a gripping read and one that I would highly recommend to other readers who enjoy a good murder mystery!
If I had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such an adorable and sweet story. It made me quite emotional reading it as a parent because these are some I things I would wish for my little boy. I read it to my 3 year old at bedtime and thought what a beautiful bedtime story it made for young children. Also I thought it would make a beautiful gift for new parents to read to their new bundle of joy. The illustrations were also lovely as well.
Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely love a good Mafia story and I have to say this has got to be amongst the best I’ve read. It was an absolutely fantastic read – from beginning to end I was completely hooked. I think Adrik had my heart from the very beginning – with everything he went through as a child, my heart broke for him so many times. Annika was not what I was expecting at all from a Mafia Princess! I loved her character straight away. This story was so heart-warming – I loved the slow burn between Adrik and Annika, it was so perfect for them. I just absolutely adored them both!
I read this book as a standalone and it was also the first I had read by this author but I will absolutely be looking for more to read!!
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a great read – I can’t’ believe I haven’t found this series before. This is the third book in the series however I read it perfectly well as a standalone however I think I’ll definitely be looking to read the first two books now. I liked that there were current themes in the story that made it relatable to me as a reader. It was really well written and certainly grabbed my attention. The characters were interesting to read about and really well developed. The story had a lot of action going on and my interest was held from beginning to end. The author had a really great writing style that I found engaging.
I would absolutely recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this new to me author!
Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such an entertaining childrens book which was beautifully written and illustrated. Amaleigha was such an adorable little girl and I loved the story about her and her wonderful imagination and ideas, I could easily see children being inspired by this book. I love the idea of a barefoot park as well! Amaleigha had some wonderful ideas in this story and I can see it definitely bringing up some questions for children about the thigs they would like to experience.
Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 5 in the Popov Bratva series. And wow this series keeps getting better with every book. I have loved everyone. The author does an amazing job with the characters giving the reader and insight into a Mafia family while also making them realistic. This story is a romance but it is full of danger and heartbreak as well.
Adrik (Beast) has a past that has scared him in a physical way as well as emotional. His upbringing was hard and because of the scars on his face he is used to people staring at him. After his upbringing he joins the Bratva to find a purpose and something he didn’t expect to find, a family.
After working for the Bratva for a few years he meets a woman that takes his breath away Annika. However he is too scared he would scare her so he keeps his distance and doesn’t show his face.
Annika has had trauma in her past as well the most recent indecent was when she was attacked and stabbed by an unknown person. While she recovers she has seen Beast around and has felt a connection and an attraction she can’t explain.
When the stalker returns and threatens Annika’s life again she is told to leave for her own safety, taking just 2 guards for protection. When she chooses Beast she sees it as a chance to finally get to know this mysterious man while Beast is going to do everything in his power to protect her from danger but also from the shock of seeing his scares.
This book is full of romance but also a great deal of danger. Your heart bleeds for both Beast and Annika for the past they have had and for the things they are still going through and dealing with. Can two Wounded people heal each other? Or will Annika be repulsed like so many others by the scars left on Beast?
The Daredevil by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a friends-to-lovers, billionaire, forced-proximity, steamy, romantic read then look no further…this is the book for you. I absolutely loved this read. This is the second book in the series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. The chemistry between Royce and Michelle is sizzling and the spice level is *chef’s kiss*. This was a quick read for me and I was hooked from the first chapter. I’m looking forward to the third installment in this series.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I didn’t realize that this was the third book in the series, but that never stops me from reading a book. And honestly, I was excited that I did keep reading without reading the first books, because this book was amazing without them. it can be read as a stand-alone book in the series. I wish I could comment on the other two books to say whether this one was just as good and you don’t want to miss reading the others, but sadly at this moment I cannot. I do feel if I had the chance to read the first two, I would have a deeper in depth on the characters, and who they are as a person. But this book was gripping and exciting on its own. This thriller of a story had me gripping the edge of my seat, it opened the door up of what the main character had gone thou in his past, the telling of these stories was compelling, and I wanted more. Going from past to present was very easy to follow and I didn’t feel like I was missing anything when it would switch back and forth. I really enjoyed this book; I really can’t wait to see if there will be more with this series.
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gunner (A Hollins & Haring Book) by T.J. Beach. This is the 3rd book in the Holliins & Haring Series and I loved it just as much as the other two. This one can be read as a standalone but I really like to read them in order. This one is about the 2020 COVID pandemic and PTSD. The story is about Gary & Debbie. Debbie is Gary’s new boss in a Private Investigator’s office. Debbie and Gary have become super close even with the whole family so when Debbie’s mom contracts COVID they all have to quarantine together. During this time Debbie finds more and more out about Gary who seems so secretive. Matt is Debbie’s husband but he is forced to quarantine away from the family. When Gary finally gets comfortable he tells Debbie about some of his past and it is ALOT! Dealing with all kinds of trauma from his job and he thinks if he tells Debbie it will take her mind off of being worried about her mom and being away from her husband! This is a great story that will really hit home for a lot of people. I read it very fast.
If I had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is such a wonderful story that really feels like it is full of magic. It will appeal to such a wide audience and has the ability to connect with each and every person that picks it up. It is sweet and well written, one of those books that I found to be just a joy.
This is the first book that I have read by this author but I can say it won’t be the last especially if they are all as good as this!
Snow in Love by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a fast-paced, romantic, holiday novel. Connor and Sienna are Paralympians training for an upcoming race. Each are dealing with their own complexities in life, but are determined to train. They each only know each other from stories they’ve read in the press.
When they take the time to talk, Connor and Sienna realize there is more to each other than meets the eye. Their relationship blossoms in the short time they are together bonding over Christmas cookies, hot cocoa and holiday movies.
This was a very entertaining read, and I was hooked from beginning to the end!
Revenge Never Rests by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved reading this story. This is the second book in this series which I highly suggest reading the first book as it is just as great as the first. This is an author that I never hesitate to pick up. Her books are well written and her writing skills bring each story to life. This book is no different. The characters pulled me in from the start. I found them to be connectable and had me coming back for more. The author’s use of details made me feel as if I was part of their world. This is a fast paced, engaging story that is hard to put down. A story you don’t want to miss, a must read. There is great growth throughout the story of the plot which made the story easy to read. I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book and this author.
Review by @bjwagner
Secrets Never Die by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When Tallie receives her mother’s belongings. There’s a letter telling her she can make a new life or go back to hometown and relive the past. She ends up seeking out a journey following the breadcrumbs of her mother’s photograph. Tallie returns to her hometown only to figure out nobody wants her there. Tallie and Jackson are real relatable people.
Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Gary has a past, but Debbie does not know all the details of it. While Gary is visiting Debbie and her family, they find out that Debbie’s mom has been exposed to the Coronavirus. Unfortunately, her mom tests positive, and everyone else is negative. Debbie’s mom leaves them all to quarantine together to keep them safe. When her mom takes a turn for the worse, Gary decides to distract Debbie by telling her his story of how he came to be in Australia working with her. As she learns his truth, can she look at him the same? Can she still trust him? Will her mom pull through so she can say all the things that are left to say?
This was a quite a read. The author did a fantastic job of intertwining the two stories together. The characters were realistic and relatable. I could feel their emotions as they were going through their separate struggles. The end of the book leaves you wanting to know more about what happens next because while it is somewhat a closed story of Gary, he opens up part of his past in the end. I look forward to finding out what transpires next!
The Sneaky Kitten: Invisible Magic Wand Book Four by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Upon reading the title and then seeing the cover, I expected it to be solely about a kitten sneaking around. I really enjoyed that it was more than what I thought. Lois always gives a good story!
I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved this book. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it after reading the first book – I loved you yesterday – to continue to follow Austin’s story. This one was as fantastic as the first and I loved every page. I Ioved the twist at the end and once again am hanging for the next instalment! I can highly recommend this read!
Faida by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The idea of Cupid using arrows is just a myth. He has help. Faida is one of the six assistant cupids. She’s been doing this job for forever and after too many jaded love stories she’s over love. It’s kinda hard for a Cupid to be done with love so on to the next assignment she goes.
Robert Peters has been hurt by past love and has sworn off all women, except for his daughter. Will Faida be able to soothe her own hurt in order to help Robert find his true love?
This was adorable! Faida realizing she needs to find out what love is really about grabs your heartstrings if you’ve ever been hurt before. I felt this book flowed nicely and was a great read. It’s obvious the author has reached a strong groove in the storyline of these cupids in this book.
I enjoyed reading this and how we see a limitation in the cupids powers to hide from children. This one was less confusing and I found it to be more entertaining as a result. There were still a few errors that could use some ironing out, but nothing that wasn’t a complete turn off from the book.